Hands-free umbrella

ABSTRACT

A hands free umbrella device comprised of a housing attached to the body of a user, including a surface for attachment; at least four ribs attached to said surface within said housing, such that when said ribs are deployed from said housing they extend over the user to form a frame work for a canopy-like overhead protective surface acting as an umbrella; a water-resistant material is attached to said ribs covering and connecting each of said ribs to form said canopy; a means for deploying said ribs, such that when the ribs are deployed said canopy is positioned above the users head covering an area around the entire diameter of the users standing body; and a means for collapsing said ribs, such that when the ribs are collapsed they fit within said housing; wherein the user has the use of both their hands while the device protects the user from precipitation and preserving visual access; and a related method for using the hands free umbrella device.

This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional application No. 61/202,795 filed Apr. 6, 2009, which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a hands-free umbrella. In particular, the invention relates to an umbrella that is worn on the body of the individual, preferably within a backpack, that is easily deployed and collapsed with minimal use of the user's hands but requires no hands to hold in place so that the user's hands are free for other functions.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

When in use conventional umbrellas must be held in the hand of the user. This makes it difficult for individuals who are carrying packages, walking or holding children or pets, on crutches or using a cane. Holding an umbrella in these instances and other similar situations is impractical because the individual has no free hand to take out money or a bus token, carry a bottle of water, open a door, carry a shopping bag, etc.

In general, umbrellas where the user's hands are free are known. Representative uses include umbrellas mounted on a bicycle cross-bar and umbrellas provided in shoulder strap carriers and backpacks. However, in all these applications, a conventional umbrella is provided with a rod used to deploy the umbrella. The umbrella itself is detachable from the mount or carrier and must be opened and then placed back in the mount or carrier when in use.

The invention is a protective apparatus providing the same function as standard rain umbrellas in use today. Advantageously, the invention is device worn by the user to deploy a canopy-like structure positioned above the user's head, and covering an area around the entire diameter of the user's standing body, protecting them from precipitation while having visual access preserved.

The invention is different from standard and other known umbrellas in its wearability and asymmetrical structure. The device enables the user to be protected from the rain even while carrying parcels, speaking on a cell phone, making use of a cane or crutch, or anything else that would require continuous use of a hand and make carrying a standard umbrella impractical. The device is deployed and collapsed with minimal use of hands, in one, two or three simple steps, without needing to remove the apparatus from the body, as it preferably held in a backpack structure worn on the body. A waist strap may also included to tether the canopy structure of the invention.

In the invention, the body of the user basically replaces the conventional umbrella rod, thus enabling the user to have use of both hands while in use and when not in use.

A general objective of the invention is to provide a wearable umbrella device used to protect the user from inclement weather as well as enable the user to have both hands free.

A more specific objective of the invention is to protect pedestrians from rain and snow while not requiring the use of a hand to hold the umbrella, and not requiring them to let go of what they are carrying just to deploy or collapse the umbrella.

Yet another objective of the invention is that it requires no hands to carry when in use.

Another objective of the invention is that it requires no hands to carry when not in use.

Another specific object of the invention is that it is deployable and collapsible without being removed from the body.

Another objective is to provide blind and visually impaired people—being people who always have one hand occupied holding a dog's harness or a cane—the ability to use their hands while being protected from the elements.

Another objective is to provide parents or caregivers of young children using strollers a means protect them from the elements so that they can use their two hands to push the stroller.

Yet another object of the invention is to provide people walking dogs and pulling wheeled suitcases and grocery baskets on wheels a benefit from the hands-free umbrella of the invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In the present invention, these purposes, as well as others which will be apparent, are achieved generally by providing a hands free umbrella device. In particular the umbrella device is made of a housing, similar to a typical daypack, bookbag or backpack, attached to the users body and at least four ribs which are attached to the surface within the housing. When the ribs are deployed from the housing they extend over the user to form a frame work for a canopy-like overhead protective surface acting as an umbrella. A water-resistant material is attached to the ribs covering and connecting each of the ribs to form the canopy.

A means for deploying the ribs is provided such that when the ribs are deployed the canopy is positioned above the users head covering an area around the entire diameter of the users standing body.

A means for collapsing the ribs is also provided such that when the ribs are collapsed they fit within the housing.

The user has the use of both their hands while protecting them from precipitation and preserving visual access.

In an alternate embodiment, each of the ribs may comprise three segments: a telescoping segment, a straight segment and a curved segment to form the canopy.

The means for deploying and collapsing said ribs is a button or other similar mechanism which automatically deploys or collapses the ribs. Alternatively, the means for deploying and collapsing the ribs is manually done by the user, preferably with one hand.

The ribs are made of a durable and flexible plastic material which permits easy deployment and collapsing of the umbrella device. Other materials used include nylon, polyethelene, carbon fiber, aluminum, Kevlar, titanium or any other material with a high strength-to-weight ratio.

In a preferred embodiment the housing is a backpack worn on the back of the user. A waist strap may also be included to tether the canopy structure of the invention.

The water-resistant material is selected from the group consisting of Gore-tex or a similar material, nylon, polyester or a water and dirt resistant variation of polyester. The front transparent panel can be made of PVC, EVA or POE.

The ribs in the umbrella device are an integral part of the housing, or backpack, and are not removable.

The invention also provides a method for using a hands free umbrella device comprising the steps of providing an umbrella device which comprises a housing attached to the body of a user, at least four ribs attached to a surface within the housing; and a water-resistant material attached to the ribs covering and connecting each of the ribs.

The umbrella device is deployed such that said ribs form a canopy positioned above the user's head covering an area around the entire diameter of the users standing body. The user has the use of both their hands while protecting them from precipitation and preserving visual access.

When the device is not in use it is collapsed such that the ribs fit within said housing.

The device is deployable and collapsible without being removed from the body. This can be done with a button or other similar mechanism, to automatically deploy or collapse the umbrella device in one step or multiple steps. Alternatively, the umbrella device is manually deployed or collapsed in one step or multiple steps.

Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent when the detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the invention are considered with reference to the drawings, which should be construed in an illustrative and not limiting sense.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A and 1B is an illustration of the general features and dimensions of the hands-free umbrella according to the invention

FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate the ribs which form the frame work for the canopy according to the invention;

FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of the umbrella device according to the invention in an open/deployed position;

FIG. 4 illustrates a rear view representing the surface area covered by the umbrella in an open/deployed position.

FIG. 5 illustrates a side view representing a single rib and the surface area covered by the umbrella in an open/deployed position.

FIG. 6 illustrates the ribs which form the frame work for the canopy according to the invention;

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate a single rib and the place of attachment thereon for the fabric material according to the invention;

FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate inside and side views of the umbrella device in deployment according to the invention;

FIG. 9 illustrates a front view of the canopy according to the invention;

FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of the invention umbrella in a closed/collapsed position.

FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrate the manual deployment of the invention.

FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C and 12D illustrate an alternate embodiment of the hands-free umbrella according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the present invention a hands free umbrella device is provided.

The invention umbrella device is worn on the body. It consists of a structure similar in exterior form to that of a backpack, with an interior form consisting of a convertible, overhead structure (umbrella) that—with minimal use of the user's hands and without being removed from the body—expands/deploys for use and collapses for storage, all while remaining attached at its base within the backpack. Both the user's hands are then free for other functions. This “backpack” is held on the body with simple straps similar to those of backpacks often used by hikers and campers.

A waist strap to which the canapy structure gets tethered is included in the invention. In manual mode, a user will pull the canopy structure over their head and secure it to a belt with a tether with the same or other hand.

When not in use, the overhead structure (umbrella) sits in a collapsed state inside the backpack. When needed, the user deploys the umbrella apparatus by reaching behind his or her head to grasp its central, front portion. It unfurls over the user while still being held at its base within the backpack. The umbrella device provides ventilation for air so that the user is not lifted off the ground by incoming wind.

The front panel of the umbrella is transparent, to facilitate visibility. When the user wishes to collapse the umbrella, he or she does so with one hand and the structure collapses back into its encasement. The transparent material can be made of PVC, EVA or POE but is not limited to such. The backpack encasement is designed to enable water drainage at its base, well behind the user's body.

In general FIGS. 1A and 1B represents the components and dimensions of the invention which describes a housing 10 attached to the body of a user, including a surface for attachment 2; at least four ribs 3 attached to the surface within said housing, such that when the ribs are deployed from the housing they extend over the user to form a frame work for a canopy-like 5 umbrella; a water-resistant material is attached to the ribs covering and connecting each of the ribs to form the canopy.

A means for deploying the ribs, such that when the ribs are deployed the canopy is positioned above the users head covering an area around the entire diameter of the users standing body.

A means for collapsing the ribs, such that when the ribs are collapsed they fit within the housing; wherein the user has the use of both their hands while protecting the user from precipitation and preserving visual access.

FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate the ribs 3 which form the frame work for the canopy according to the invention. In a preferred embodiment the ribs comprise three segments: a telescoping segment 6, a straight segment 7 and a curled segment 8. The telescoping segment is attached to the housing 2. FIG. 2A illustrates the direction of the rib segments in collapsing the device and FIG. 2B illustrates the rib segments in deployment.

FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of the umbrella device according to the invention in an open/deployed position. The ribs 3 and housing 1 are shown. FIG. 4 illustrates a rear view representing the surface area covered by the umbrella in an open/deployed position. The ribs 3 and canopy 5 are shown.

FIG. 5 illustrates a side view representing a single rib 3 and the surface area covered by the umbrella in an open/deployed position.

FIG. 6 illustrates the ribs 3 which form the frame work for the canopy according to the invention. At least four ribs 3 are attached to the surface of the housing 2. As illustrated the ribs are deployed and extend over the user to form the framework for the canopy.

FIG. 7A illustrates a single rib 3 from a side profile and the places of attachment 9, 10 for the material for the canopy. FIG. 7B shows the fabric material attached to the rib.

FIG. 8A illustrates the inside view of the umbrella device in deployment. The ribs 3 and canopy 5 are illustrated. FIG. 8B shows the side views of the umbrella device in deployment. FIG. 9 illustrates a front view of the canopy 5. FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of the invention umbrella in a closed/collapsed position.

FIG. 11A illustrates the user reaching behind and grasping the handle 30 and FIG. 1B shows the umbrella device in use.

FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C and 12D illustrate an alternate embodiment of the hands-free umbrella according to the invention. FIG. 12A shows a ribbed awning structure 12 that includes two hinges 13 on opposite sides. FIG. 12B shows the awning in a closed (not in use) position with a pull down knob 14. FIG. 12C shows the awning in an open (in use) position with a clear panel 15 in front of the user. FIG. 12D shows a side profile of the alternate embodiment in use.

The foregoing description of various and preferred embodiments of the present invention has been provided for purposes of illustration only, and it is understood that numerous modifications, variations and alterations may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention as set forth in the following claims. 

1. A hands free umbrella device comprised of: a housing attached to the body of a user, including a surface for attachment; at least four ribs attached to said surface within said housing, such that when said ribs are deployed from said housing they extend over the user to form a frame work for a canopy-like overhead, protective surface acting as an umbrella; a water-resistant material is attached to said ribs covering and connecting each of said ribs to form said canopy; a means for deploying said ribs, such that when the ribs are deployed said canopy is positioned above the users head covering an area around the entire diameter of the users standing body; and a means for collapsing said ribs, such that when the ribs are collapsed they fit within said housing; wherein the user has the use of both their hands while the device protects the user from precipitation and preserving visual access.
 2. The hands free umbrella device according to claim 1, wherein each of said ribs comprise three segments: a telescoping segment, a straight segment and a curved segment.
 3. The hands free umbrella device according to claim 1, wherein said means for deploying and collapsing said ribs is a button or other similar mechanism which automatically deploys or collapses said ribs.
 4. The hands free umbrella device according to claim 1, wherein said means for deploying and collapsing said ribs is manually done by the user.
 5. The hands free umbrella device according to claim 1, wherein said ribs are comprised of a flexible plastic material.
 6. The hands free umbrella device according to claim 1, wherein said ribs are selected from the group consisting of nylon, polyethelene, carbon fiber, aluminum, Kevlar and titanium.
 7. The hands free umbrella device according to claim 1, wherein said housing is a backpack worn on the back of the user.
 8. The hands free umbrella device according to claim 1, wherein said water-resistant material is selected from the group consisting of Gore-tex, nylon, polyester, PVC, EVA and POE.
 9. The hands free umbrella device according to claim 1, wherein said ribs are not removable from said housing.
 10. A method for using a hands free umbrella device comprising the steps of: providing an umbrella device which comprises a housing attached to the body of a user, at least four ribs attached to a surface within said housing; and a water-resistant material attached to said ribs covering and connecting each of said ribs; and deploying said umbrella device, such that said ribs are deployed to form a canopy which is positioned above the user's head covering an area around the entire diameter of the users standing body; wherein the user has the use of both their hands while the device protects the user from precipitation and preserving visual access.
 11. The method according to claim 10, further comprising collapsing said umbrella device, such that when said ribs are collapsed they fit within said housing.
 12. The method according to claim 10, wherein the device is deployable and collapsible without being removed from the body.
 13. The method according to claim 10, wherein a button or other similar mechanism is used which automatically deploys or collapses said umbrella device in one step.
 14. The method according to claim 10, wherein said umbrella device is manually deployed or collapsed in one step.
 15. The method according to claim 10, wherein a button or other similar mechanism is used which automatically deploys or collapses said umbrella device in multiple steps.
 16. The method according to claim 10, wherein said umbrella device is manually deployed or collapsed in multiple steps. 